Alabama athletic director Mal Moore is stepping down and will serve instead as special assistant to university president, Judy Bonner. AL.com first reported the news.

Moore had been hospitalized while receiving treatment at the Duke Medical Center for pulmonary problems. It is his second hospitalization in less than a year, as he was treated last August for an irregular heartbeat.

Alabama athletic director Mal Moore is stepping down, effective immediately, and will serve as special assistant to the president. Moore is dealing with health issues. (AP Photo)

“Mal Moore is Crimson Tide sports,” Bonner said in a statement released by the university. “During his tenure athletics director, our student athletes have experienced unprecedented success in every aspect of their careers at UA, one the field and in the classroom.

“His contributions to UA athletics on every level are unsurpassed. And, while he will no longer be in charge of day-to-day operations, I am so pleased that we will continue to be able to rely on his wisdom and expertise going forward.”

Moore, 73, has been affiliated with the university for decades. He played football under Paul “Bear” Bryant, was an assistant coach and has been the AD since 1999.

“As many of you may know, due to factors related to my health, I am at a point that I can no longer fulfill my duties as athletics director in the true championship manner the position requires,” Moore said. “While I have to focus on my health issue, I look forward to maintaining an ongoing working relationship with this great university as a special assistant to Dr. Bonner.

“I know I can count on each of you to continue your unequaled support for me and the University of Alabama.”

Moore is a member of the Alabama Sports Hall of Fame and has led one of the most powerful athletic programs in the country. Just last month, on the heels of another national championship in football, a new $9 million strength and conditioning facility for the football team was opened.